The NBAA’s 2024 Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition emphasised using industry giants’ lessons to drive toward a promising future. “We create jobs, provide global access, boost productivity, support relief efforts, and continuously focus on efficiency and sustainability,” said NBAA’s President Ed Bolen.

The NBAA-BACE panel of top aircraft brokers reported continued demand for pre owned jets, despite a market adjustment post-COVID. “Year-over-year, we’re seeing a balanced, healthy market,” noted jetAVIVA CEO Emily Deaton. While fleet availability rose to 6-7 per cent, Dallas Jet International’s Brad Harris emphasised it remains a seller’s market.

Shifts in buyer demographics also emerged, with younger clients favoring fractional ownership and single-seat charters due to sustainability considerations. Looking forward, Steve Varsano of The Jet Business pointed to OEMs’ own advanced products from the last decade as their main competition. Transaction times remain strained due to supply chain issues, but brokers don’t expect headlines on the economy or geopolitical events to impact jet sales significantly.

“People buy airplanes because they need them for business,” Varsano concluded. Through several of these discussions that took place during the convention, some of the major topics and trends observed at NBAA BACE included Fractional Ownership; Business Aviation Safety and Security; Sustainability; Advance Air Mobility; Artificial Intelligence in Business Aviation and the growth trends of the industry.

FRACTIONAL OWNERSHIP INSIGHTS AT 2024 NBAA-BACE

Despite pressures like IRS scrutiny, new fuel taxes, and heightened visibility of operator movements, demand for business aircraft remains steady, though not surging, said Brian Foley of Brian Foley Associates during a panel on fractional ownership trends at 2024 NBAA-BACE. “We’re holding steady at around 700 unit deliveries per year since 2012,” Foley observed, contrasting with the record 1,300 units back in 2007-2008.

One major change is in the user base: while traditional Part 91 operations have dipped, Part 135 charters are up seven per cent, and fractional ownership has soared by 56 per cent compared to pre-pandemic figures, said Ronald Epstein of Bank of America Global Research. The shift began during COVID-19, as many found fractional ownership’s lower commitment appealing, which Epstein suggested reflects a longer-term trend.

Richard Aboulafia from AeroDynamic Advisory highlighted privacy as a key driver for fractional ownership and charters, noting they offer a level of anonymity absent from direct ownership, helping executives avoid scrutiny from activists or regulators. “Anonymity is a virtue here,” he emphasised.

On a positive note, Epstein mentioned that supply constraints have instilled discipline in the industry, with nearly every jet now built having an owner lined up. While workforce shortages persist, Aboulafia argued these limitations could pave the way for a more sustainable recovery by enforcing industry discipline, ultimately creating a “good runway ahead.”

COMMITMENT TO BUSINESS AVIATION SAFETY

The 2024 NBAA National Safety Forum concluded with a discussion on business aviation safety, spotlighting the importance of safety management systems (SMS) and collaboration between business aircraft operators and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). During the final session at NBAA-BACE, NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to safety, calling it a core value that guides every aspect of business aviation.

Additionally, NBAA’s Small Operator Symposium provided valuable guidance for small flight departments. Safety experts shared practical steps for improving safety in small operations, including implementing safety briefings, flight risk assessment tools, standard operating procedures, and safety audits. The NBAA’s Domestic Operations Committee also released a new resource, “Five Simple Steps to a Safer Flight Operation,” to support smaller flight departments in enhancing their safety practices.

BIZAV AND ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

At 2024 NBAA-BACE, a panel discussion led by Robin Riedel of McKinsey & Company explored the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in business aviation. Experts shared insights on how AI could enhance safety, reduce costs, and improve flexibility and responsiveness, with some applications already in use today.

Mark Groden, CEO of Skyryse, explained that AI is a broad term, encompassing both deterministic and non-deterministic systems. While deterministic AI, like integrated fly-by-wire systems, is already used for aircraft control, Groden emphasised that non-deterministic AI has greater potential in areas like maintenance and scheduling rather than in the cockpit.

Dr Yemaya Bordain, President of Daedalean AI, highlighted the future role of non-deterministic AI in aircraft, particularly for traffic identification and situational awareness. Her company’s technology is already being used in search-and-rescue operations and can detect hazards like birds before a strike occurs, effectively acting as a second set of eyes for pilots.

Jon Damush of uAvionix Corporation focused on how AI can simplify pilot operations and improve safety, citing their use of machine learning to identify potential hazards like birds or ultra-light aircraft in low-altitude, non-controlled airspace.

Robert Rose, CEO of Reliable Robotics, discussed how AI could mitigate common causes of small aircraft accidents, such as controlled flight into terrain and loss of control. Technologies like continuous autopilot, detect-and-avoid systems, and auto-landing technology are already in development, with Reliable Robotics aiming for certified remotely piloted Cessna Caravans by 2027.

The panel also stressed the importance of cybersecurity in AI applications, with all agreeing that the US should take a leadership role in setting industry standards to ensure safe, reliable AI integration in aviation.

ADVANCED AIR MOBILITY STRIDES

At the 2024 NBAA-BACE, FAA Administrator Michael Whitaker unveiled a pivotal government initiative for integrating advanced air mobility (AAM) aircraft into the US aviation system. The announcement included the release of a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR) designed to ensure safe and efficient AAM operations.

As AAM technology nears certification, business models are emerging for these innovative, low-emission platforms. Marc Allen, CEO of Electra. aero, highlighted how his company’s hybrid electric short takeoff and landing (eSTOL) aircraft is poised to disrupt existing aviation routes, citing the aircraft’s minimal noise, low emissions, and easy access to landing zones.

The necessary ground infrastructure to support AAM operations is also taking shape. BETA Technologies, which is developing the ALIA electric aircraft, has already installed multi-modal charging stations at airports across Florida, with plans for a nationwide network of 150 stations. However, scaling up infrastructure remains a challenge. Tony Lefebvre of Signature Aviation and Jeff Foland of Atlantic Aviation discussed the need for additional charging nodes to support the expanding fleet of electric aircraft.

Public acceptance and affordability will be key to AAM’s success, according to BETA CEO Kyle Clark and Lilium’s Sebastien Borel. Clark emphasised the importance of engaging the public, while Borel pointed to the potential for reduced operational costs as battery technology improves, making AAM services more accessible.

At 2024 NBAA-BACE in Las Vegas, many major AAM developers made key announcements, showcasing advancements in eVTOL technology, partnerships, and market readiness. The event highlighted AAM’s progress toward certification, production, and adoption, marking its growing role in aviation’s future.

• Supernal, an eVTOL developer part of Hyundai Motor Group, announced two significant partnerships. The first, with Clay Lacy Aviation, marks Supernal’s entry into collaboration with a fixed-base operator (FBO) to integrate AAM into airport infrastructure, focusing on ground handling, maintenance, and charging infrastructure in Southern California. The second partnership with Blade Urban Mobility will explore AAM network development in high-demand regions, including air taxis and organ transportation services, leveraging both companies’ technologies.
• Textron Aviation unveiled the Cessna Citation CJ4 Gen3 prototype, which successfully completed its first flight in October. The upgraded light jet, expected to enter service in 2026, features advanced avionics, including Garmin’s G3000 Prime system and Emergency Autoland.
• Electra.aero revealed its decision to develop a near-conformal demonstrator, the G-0, for its hybrid-electric eSTOL aircraft, based on successful tests of its EL-2 prototype. The G-0, designed to closely match the production model, will undergo testing before Electra moves into flight tests for certification. The final production version aims to carry nine passengers or 2,500 lbs of cargo on regional routes up to 500 miles.

These announcements underscore AAM’s growing role in reshaping aviation, with industry leaders advancing technology and infrastructure for a sustainable, efficient future.

ZOOMING IN ON SUSTAINABILITY IN BUSINESS AVIATION

The 2024 NBAA-BACE showcased efforts by business aircraft manufacturers, industry leaders, and government officials to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. Central to the event was a panel discussion hosted by NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen and Pete Bunce, President and CEO of the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA).

Embraer’s CEO Michael Amalfitano underscored the importance of innovation, particularly the greater adoption of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), in achieving these goals. He stressed that the industry must act swiftly, safely, and responsibly. Bunce added that significant resources have been invested into CLIMBING. FAST. to educate both policymakers and the public about business aviation’s positive impact on society.

“We create jobs, provide global access, boost productivity, support relief efforts, and continuously focus on efficiency and sustainability”
—NBAA’s President Ed Bolen at the 2024 Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition

The discussion reflected on the evolution of sustainability commitments since 2009, when the Business Aviation Commitment on Climate Change set a goal to halve CO₂ emissions by 2050. Now, the industry has committed to achieving net-zero emissions within 25 years, with J.C. Gallagher of Bombardier praising the collaboration that has advanced the sector’s progress.

JoeBen Bevirt of Joby Aviation highlighted the transformative potential of advanced air mobility and electric and hydrogen propulsion technologies, citing their efficiency as crucial to reducing emissions.

Federal support is also critical, said Jeff Marootian from the US Department of Energy, pointing to the Inflation Reduction Act, which accelerates investments in SAF, hydrogen, and electrification to support sustainability goals. Scott Lewis of World Energy Supply Zero noted that while the industry still has a long way to go in adopting SAF, progress is being made.

Bombardier, too, has made notable sustainability strides, from installing solar panels to developing low-emission aircraft like its EcoJet, a project it began in 2009 without external grants. Eve Laurier of Bombardier shared how the EcoJet has gained worldwide attention for its potential in low-emissions flight.

Finally, former FAA Administrator Billy Nolen, now with Archer Aviation, discussed the company’s work on electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, which produce zero emissions, emphasising their commitment to a sustainable future in aviation.

The discussion underscored a unified industry determination to not only meet sustainability goals but to take the lead in shaping a cleaner, more efficient future for business aviation.

Pilatus took a bold step in demonstrating sustainable innovation by collaborating with Austrian cabin materials expert F/List. Together, they showcased a PC-24 cabin mockup that utilised a plant-based oil wood veneer finish, engineered to reduce harmful emissions without compromising aesthetic appeal or durability. This ecofriendly interior highlighted Pilatus’ dedication to reducing environmental impact in aviation design.

CLIMBING.FAST TOWARDS SUSTAINABILITY

A host of companies signed the NBAA-BACE Exhibitor Sustainability Pledge, underscoring their commitment to lowering the show’s carbon footprint. The industry’s CLIMBING. FAST. advocacy campaign kicked off its second year by welcoming a new association partner, the Canadian Business Aviation Association, to the international coalition. As part of its strategy to reach net zero, CLIMBING. FAST. has been promoting the use of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), which can reduce lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions by up to 80 per cent compared to conventional jet fuel.

First unveiled at NBAA-BACE in 2023, CLIMBING. FAST. is a multi-media advocacy initiative aimed at educating policymakers and opinion leaders about business aviation’s sustainability goals. The campaign also touts the industry’s role in creating jobs, connecting communities and providing humanitarian disaster relief. CLIMBING. FAST. continues to expand globally, with the European Business Aviation Association joining last May and the Canadian Business Aviation Association announcing its partnership at this year’s NBAA-BACE.

The 2024 NBAA-BACE underscored the pivotal role of innovation and sustainability in shaping business aviation’s future, while being mindful of present trends and future scenarios.